Adjusting to a fixed income in retirement can be a challenge — especially if you’re living off less money.

Just because you stopped working doesn’t mean you can stop paying the utility bills and buying groceries. If you’re planning vacations or trips to the golf course — those are extra costs to budget for.

“You could easily spend more money [in retirement] because you have more time you want to enjoy,” said Droucelle Ramage, a retiree living in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Embracing frugality throughout her life, however, is one of the reasons Ramage was able to leave the workforce in her early 60s.

“I used to say it’s against my religion to pay full retail,” she joked.

Ramage continues to keep expenses low by shopping at thrift stores, attending free community events and choosing community acupuncture rather than going to a pricey private practice.

“It’s $15 instead of $100,” she said.

Volunteering at her church and local senior center is another way Ramage stays busy without spending money. When she travels, she’s able to get free flights, a benefit of working for American Airlines for over 20 years.

Knowing how to cut costs is key to having a frugal retirement you can enjoy. Here are 12 ways to save money.

It always helps to have a little money in the bank. Get great ideas about how to build your savings delivered straight to your inbox in The Penny Hoarder Daily.

5. Be Proactive About Your Health

Felice Drouin stretches during an exercise class at the Sunshine Center. After retiring, Drouin worked as a supervisor during the 2000 Census. Chris Zuppa/The Penny Hoarder

Your health is often intertwined with your wealth. Staying healthy in retirement means you’ll spend less on medical costs.

When it comes to preventative care, a balanced diet and regular exercise can lower your chances of developing certain conditions like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. But you don’t have to drain your bank account paying for expensive health food or a pricey gym membership.

If you’re 65 or older, enroll in Medicare. While Medicare coverage doesn’t eliminate out-of-pocket costs, you’ll pay less than with private health insurance.

6. Find Low-Cost Entertainment and Ways to Stay Social

Keep busy in retirement without emptying your wallet.

Fill your social calendar up with events at your local senior center, host potluck dinners with friends or start a murder mystery book club. Check out free offerings at your library, like sign language classes or museum passes.

8. Take Advantage of Discounts

Don’t be shy about sharing your age when it’ll result in sweet discounts. Dozens of companies — from retailers and restaurants to airlines and hotels — offer lower prices for seniors. Some offer discounts to customers as young as 50.

12. Pay Off Lingering Debt

The rewards are twofold when you become debt free sooner rather than later. You’ll pay less in overall interest when you pay off your debt early. You’ll also free up more cash once you no longer have that monthly financial obligation.